Erie, Pa. - The Mercyhurst Women's basketball team begins their 2023-24 season this week as they get set to participate in a PSAC vs MEC Challenge. On Friday, November 10th, the Lakers will square up against West Liberty University, before playing Wheeling University on Saturday, November 11th.
A Look Back
The Lakers are coming off a strong season in 2022-23, going 14-14 overall and 10-12 in conference play. Brooklyn Kohlheim's group brings a strong sense of veteran leadership to the floor, with a compliment of skilled underclassman and transfers. A year ago, the team played West Liberty in the same kickoff challenge and lost in a double overtime thriller 108-107. The team will look to rectify last year's loss with a win this weekend.
Familiar Faces
Danielle Grim and Julia Buchman are two key returners for the Lakers, and both will be relied on heavily to put the ball in the basket. Paige Woodford will also be a main contributor, as she's been a model of consistency over the past couple of seasons for Mercyhurst. Other key players for the Lakers include Ava Waid, Jenna Van Schaik, Grace Clary, Lexi Wagner, Bailey Kuhns, Lauren Klare, and Sarah Hortin.
The Lakers are one of the deepest teams in the PSAC, with a lot of players capable of making a difference on both ends of the floor. Singo Lekeuneu and Maria McConnell begin their first season with Mercyhurst after spending time at Duquesne and St. Francis University. Kate Deutsch and Allyson Ross also begin their Laker careers, transferring from Fordham and Winthrop University.
Scouting West Liberty University
West Liberty is coming off a 17-12 season. Despite graduating their leading scorer, the Hilltoppers return their second leading scorer in Karly McCutcheon. McCutcheon averaged 17 ppg last season. West Liberty also returns Corinne Thomas and Grace Faulk who are now upperclassman with numerous games under their belt.
Scouting Wheeling University
Wheeling University is coming off a 14-15 season in 2022-23. Head Coach Anna Kowalska enters her second season with Wheeling, bringing back three of five starters, while also welcoming a few transfers. Shamia Strayhorn leads the group as the lone returning All-MEC player after earning Honorable Mention All-MEC a year ago.
Next Game
After their trip to West Virginia, the Lakers will head home to host Lake Erie on Wednesday November 15th. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 PM.
